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Los Tigres del Norte, for decades considered by fans as La Voz del Pueblo (or the voice of the pueblo), is set to perform at the Kamala Harris campaign rally in Phoenix on Thursday (Oct. 31). The appearance aligns with the Mexican band’s continued support for Democratic candidates during U.S. presidential elections. In the past, […]
One of the most successful regional Mexican groups, Calibre 50 is no stranger to leading the pack, and the group is at again with its record-extending 26th No. 1 on Billboard’s Regional Mexican Airplay chart, as “El Amor De Mi Vida” jumps 2-1 to lead the Nov. 2-dated list. Explore Explore See latest videos, charts […]
Música popular Colombiana made its debut at the 2024 Billboard Latin Music Awards, with a show-opening performance by Luis Alfonso. It was a historic moment for the fast-growing genre that fuses Regional Mexican music and the string music known as carrilera in Colombia.
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“The achievement and magnitude of how important this was for the Colombian popular genre is indescribable,” Alfonso tells Billboard. “For me, having been at such an important space is a feeling of gratitude to all the beautiful people who make this possible. Thank you Billboard for giving me the confidence, the opportunity, and being able to show the world our music, culture, and essence.”
During the opening set, the artist hailing from Popayán, Colombia performed a medley of his hit “Tequila Con Cerveza,” originally recorded with urban star Blessd, followed by current viral hit “Chismofilia.” Prior to performing at the awards ceremony, Alfonso also spoke about música popular Colombiana at a panel during Billboard Latin Music Week that also featured country-mates Paola Jara, Yeison Jiménez and Pipe Bueno.
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But long before making waves at Latin music’s biggest event, Alfonso made a name for himself in the Regional Colombian genre with a subgenre he created known as “contentoso,” where he laces feel-good and fun melodies with música popular.
His best representation, up to now, is his viral track “Chismofilia,” which earned his first Billboard entry on the Latin Pop Airplay chart this year.
“We were going to do something that people can identify with. What are we missing in our lives? An envious person, a gossiper,” he explains. “Every person in life has a gossiper who is paying attention to what you are doing. I thought, I am going to make an important song in the market, and thanks to the envious people, we are trending every day. ‘Chismofilia’ is love of gossip.”
Alfonso’s love for music derives from his grandfather, a man he describes as humble and who had great knowledge of Mexican culture and its music. He credits Regional Mexican legends such as Pedro Infante, Jorge Negrete, Antonio Aguilar, and Vicente Fernandez as some of his first inspirations.
His biggest influences, however, are his compatriots Jhonny Rivera and Arelys Henao. The former because of his humility and transparency, and the latter because of her advice as a mother figure—both which he admires for their long-lasting and inspirational careers in música popular Colombiana.
In 2020, Alfonso inked a deal with La Industria Inc., after being discovered at a birthday party by the cousin of Juan Diego Medina (CEO of La Industria). Since, he’s unleashed three live albums and his debut studio album Contentoso in 2024.
At the heart of his flourishing success, Alfonso takes heartfelt pride in being a “montañero” (mountaineer).
“It’s everything. It’s the glue that unites all my passions,” he notes. “Being a mountaineer is a person who loves the countryside, the town, horses, animals, eating rice with egg, writing poems. I think that is all that my music means, because the music I make is music for the bars and for the town.”
Below, learn more about Billboard’s Latin Artist on the Rise for October:
Name: Luis Alfonso
Age: 30
Recommended Song: “Chismofilia”
Major Accomplishment: Performing for the first time at Coliseo Medplus in Bogotá on Oct. 26, where he sang to more than 15,000 fans. “It’s a pride, a dream come true, and a goal in life that inspires all my colleagues,” he notes. “It was a turning point in my personal and professional life. It was the key that opened the door to take a step towards other horizons. When I opened my ticketing sale, we had three months until the date to achieve the sold-out date, but we did it in the first month. I still can’t take in the huge achievement we made. I’m still on a cloud of happiness.”
What’s Next?: Luis Alfonso promises upcoming collaborations, albums and a tour in Europe, but above all, “many beautiful things and music for ‘berracos.’” (Berracos is slang in Colombia for someone who is determined and hardworking).
Every month, Billboard Latin and Billboard Español editors spotlight a group of rising artists whose music we love. Think “diamantes en bruto,” or “diamonds in the rough.” These are newcomers who have yet to impact the mainstream — but whose music excites us, and who we believe our readers should make a point to discover.
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Our latest edition of On the Radar Latin includes a wave of emerging artists, we came across at the 2024 Billboard Latin Music Week in Miami, which took place Oct. 14-18. See our recommendations this month below:
Artist: Alex Ponce
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Country: Ecuador
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: If you saw an artist wearing large light blue over-ear headphones during Billboard Latin Music Week, you may already be familiar with Alex Ponce. This Ecuadorian singer-songwriter has been making waves on social media with his videos. He used this year’s conference not only to meet new people and forge connections but also to showcase his latest single, “La Sin Sentimientos,” featuring Blanko. His style is impressive, blending elements of regional Mexican music with innovative electronic sounds, fresh vocals, and upbeat pop influences. This combination creates a vibrant sound that could easily become a new party anthem. — INGRID FAJARDO
Song for your playlist: “La Sin Sentimientos”
Artist: Dany Deglein
Country: Bolivia
Why They Should Be On Your Radar: Dany Deglein, a Bolivian artist with a decade of solo career success in his native country, is reinventing his music after a transformative sabbatical into eco-tourism, according to a Mexican publication. His roots in the music of his native surroundings are evident in his pop fusions that feature traditional Bolivian instruments, like the charango. A standout track, “Mala,” celebrates this instrument — a small Andean guitar-like piece that usually has an armadillo shell for its body — in a festive song about empowerment after breakups. Deglein, who Billboard Español connected with during Latin Music week, is actively involved in humanitarian causes, utilizing his music as a force for social change. Deglein’s narrative and sound are both poignant and playful, securing his place as an artist to watch. — ISABELA RAYGOZA
Song For Your Playlist: “Mala”
Artist: Grupo Diez 4tro
Country: Mexico
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: Grupo Diez 4tro, helmed by vocalist Jesus “Moreno,” was founded in 2020 in Sacramento, Calif. With its innovative and distinctive fusion of drill rap and Música Mexicana, Moreno brought to life a subgenre he dubbed “Drilla Corridos.” Some of Grupo Diez 4tro’s earlier and viral hits include “En El Refuego” and “Los Hermanos,” gaining traction in countries such as the United States, Mexico, and Guatemala. After kicking off its music career, Diez 4tro unleashed three albums: Consejos de la Vida (2022), Blanco (2023), and Rojo (2023). In the midst of attending his first-ever Billboard Latin Music Week, “Moreno” dropped his latest single “Dile,” which captures a romantic corrido tune about falling in love with a girl and encouraging her to tell her parents that they will get married. — JESSICA ROIZ
Song For Your Playlist: “Dile”
Artist: L+U
Country: Venezuela / Italy
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: Formed by Italian songstress Luisa Maggioni and Venezuelan artist Claudio Urdaneta (who also has German and Salvadoran roots), L+U is a husband and wife duo that goes beyond just a talented couple. Maggioni—who was a chorist for Phil Collins and participated in “The Voice Italy”—is a survivor of anorexia. Urdaneta—a studied musician who toured the world with Michael Franti & Spearhead—battled with depression when he migrated to the U.S. Today, after meeting in Miami and getting married in 2022, the duo is creating Spanish pop-rock music with purpose. “We channel our life experiences, along with our love for each other, into positive music that explores themes of mental health, resilience, and love,” the duo tells Billboard. “Our hope is that our songs can add something meaningful to the lives of our listeners.” — J.R.
Song For Your Playlist: “Espejo”
Artist: LI-C
Country: Cuba
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: Cuban-born artist LI-C is a studied singer and musician, who after taking vocal classes and learning to play the clarinet, became a music professor herself. In Cuba, she formed part of a musical group, having the opportunity to take her talent to Asia. Now residing in Miami, the artist born Lisandra Rondon officially launched her music career this year with her debut album Mariposa (Butterfly). Sonically, the 12-track set helmed by hitmakers La Companioni and Nando Pro, laces LI-C’s captivating vocals with fusions of reggaeton, afrobeat, salsa, and pop. Lyrically, she honors her album’s name, singing about personal growth, self-love, and happiness. LI-C took full advantage at her first Billboard Latin Music Week, where she attended with her managers, networked with her colleagues, learned from this year’s panelists, and even asked a question during the “Billboard Ask Anything” panel. — J.R.
Song For Your Playlist: “Mi Propiedad”
Artist: Lulita (Alexandra Kirtchuk)
Country: Argentina/U.S.
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: With a privileged lyrical voice, Lulita — a New Yorker of Argentine-Israeli descent — fuses the sounds of her ancestors to create inspiring music. Graduated from the renowned LaGuardia High School, she studied international relations before moving to Buenos Aires to learn tango and folklore. With influences as eclectic as the Gipsy Kings, Buena Vista Social Club, Mercedes Sosa and Gilberto Gil, Lulita presents a truly interesting offering. She will release on Nov. 22 her first EP, Alexandra, with songs of the Argentine folklore and fragments of family interviews in Argentina and Jewish prayers in Israel. Meanwhile, you can listen to her on Spotify performing a song titled “song of simple things.” — SIGAL RATNER-ARIAS
Song For Your Playlist: “canción de las simples cosas”
Artist: Milo Campos
Country: México
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: Milo is a Mexican producer and singer-songwriter who is making a name for himself in the music industry. He started his career as a songwriter for various artists, including Banda Los Sebastianes, Edwin Luna, and Luis “Potro” Caballero, among others in Mexico. Known for his unique storytelling through music, he released his solo album Lotería this year. This eight-track concept LP is inspired by the traditional Mexican game of Lotería, with each track corresponding to a specific card name, such as “El Valiente,” “La Sirena,” and “El Borracho.” The album features a blend of regional Mexican music, including huapango, trap, salsa, norteño, and even reggaetón, all written and produced by Milo himself.
Song For Your Playlist: “El Borracho”
Artist: Nathalie Blain
Country: Ecuador
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: Nathalie Blain traveled from her native Ecuador to Miami to introduce her music project to colleagues and industry leaders. The emerging artist and professional dancer kicked off her singing career in 2023 and counts with five singles up to now. She’s also opened shows for Greeicy and Jorge Celedon. From her debut single “Si Te Hubieras Quedado” to her latest collaboration, “Contigo” with Andres Molina, Blain easily navigates different genres such as bolero, R&B, cumbia, and reggaetón. In her lyrics, she opens up about personal experiences that broke her but also shaped her. “I spent a lot of time repressing my emotions until music found me again and resurrected me little by little,” her Spotify profile notes. “Through music I let myself feel, I give myself over to the feeling and the emotion, I don’t resist and that frees me.” — J.R.
Song For Your Playlist: “Si Te Hubieras Quedado”
Artist: Nik Salazar
Country: Colombia
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: I briefly met Nik last year during Billboard Latin Week 2023, and then in Puerto Rico, I had the opportunity to check out more on his music further at an event for Premios Juventud. I’ve been following his recent releases, and we caught up again during this year’s Billboard Latin Music Week. During that time, he met new colleagues and gained more insights into his career while continuously working on his music and projects. Nik started writing at the age of 11 and studied music in Bogotá, Colombia where he has been honing his songwriting skills over the years. One thing I’ve noticed about him, in addition to his incredible talent and charming charisma, is his determination to advocate for his project. His latest work, “Los Santos,” beautifully blends sensual pop with an urban touch, showcasing his sweet voice. — I.F.
Song for your playlist: “Los Santos”
Artist: Pedro El Rapero
Country: Venezuela
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: Without a doubt, Pedro El Rapero left a mark at Billboard Latin Music Week by creating an unforgettable moment during J Balvin’s Superstar Q&A. The 13-year-old took the stage during the panel to show the Colombian artist his rap skills, performing his infectious song “Retro 1.” Hailing from the city of Barquisimeto, the youngster already performed at the Poliedro de Caracas during a concert of El Alfa, a moment that opened doors for other performances in Venezuela, Argentina and Guatemala. A rapper but also a singer, and more than 250,000 followers on Instagram, he has released the five-song EP Alegría (2023) and has a new single titled “Hasta el final.” — S.R.A.
Song For Your Playlist: “Retro 1”
Artist: Steffania Uttaro
Country: Venezuela
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: The 27-year-old singer-songwriter from Venezuela has already made some waves in the music industry, particularly in Argentina, where she currently resides. She was a semi-finalist on the third season of La Voz Argentina in 2021. Now, she’s looking to branch out and expand her reach, which is what led her to travel to the 2024 Billboard Latin Music Week. Most recently, she released her debut album, titled Amor del Bueno y Del Otro También, which showcases her light yet wide-ranging vocals, and her versatile musical palette dabbling in ballads, pop and more rhythmic styles. — GRISELDA FLORES
Song For Your Playlist: “Veneno”
Artist: Zandú
Country: Venezuela
Why They Should Be on Your Radar: With a pop-urban sound and a pleasant voice and cadence, Colombian-Venezuelan singer and songwriter Zandú achieved notoriety in 2020 with the song alluding to the pandemic “Qué Cosa Tan Loca,” after his concerts from the balcony for his neighbors lead him to appear on different international news programs (as documented in its music video). But Zandú started much earlier, singing at folkloric music festivals and also in a salsa and merengue band. Born in Pregonero, Táchira, and currently living between Venezuela and Switzerland, he has released singles including “Combinas Conmigo” with Felipe Peláez and the song about mental health “Esta Me La Dedico,” as well as an EP titled Exhala in 2022. His most recent release is Error de Lectura, a six-song set in which he fuses contemporary sounds with music from the 90s.— S.R.A.
Song For Your Playlist: “Vas a Ver”
Nicky Jam is no longer supporting Donald Trump for president, the reggaetón hitmaker announced on Wednesday (Oct. 30) in a video he uploaded to his Instagram page. The message comes a month after the Massachusetts-born singer-songwriter had endorsed the Republican candidate and even spoke at one of his rallies in Las Vegas back in September. […]
On Tuesday (Oct. 29), Maluma unveiled his new athletic-wear line Remanence during a fashion show in his native Medellín, Colombia. The hitmaker serves as owner and creative director of the brand — led by designer Ana Villegas — which was designed “100% in Colombia and focuses on responsible practices, using renewable energy and efficient processes […]
The death of Vicente Fernández at 81 years old in 2021 marked the end of a golden era of Mexican ranchera music that lasted almost a century and was immortalized in both film and music by larger than life stars like José Alfredo Jiménez, Javier Solís, Antonio Aguilar and Fernández’s idol, Pedro Infante.
Now, Fernández’s lasting legacy not only in Mexico but throughout the entire Spanish speaking universe, is receiving a further boost with De Rey a Rey, the album and tour by his also superstar son, Alejandro Fernández, performing songs from his father’s vast recorded catalog.
Last weekend, Alejandro Fernández kicked of the De Rey a Rey Tour with two sold out shows at Mexico City’s Plaza de México, where he performed nearly 30 songs made famous by his father decades ago. The repertoire, ranging from beloved standards like “El Rey” to chart hits like “Estos Celos,” ran the gamut of Vicente’s long career and the universal appeal of his themes: love, honor and respect.
Alejandro also sang songs from his own extensive repertoire, which straddles contemporary pop and ballads as well as traditional Mexican music, but as he often does — and like his father, he wore his signature charro outfit.
“I’ve had the good fortune of being born with two great blessings: I was born Mexican, and I was born a Fernández,” Alejandro told the crowd. “Today, we’re celebrating the life of the great Mexican charro as he would have liked: Singing his songs. Viva Vicente Fernández! Viva music and tequila! Viva México!”
Alejandro will continue De Rey a Rey with shows in Mexico Nov. 2 and 7, and will relaunch his tour through Mexico and 27 U.S. cities in early 2025.
Meantime, Billboard’s Latin and Billboard Español editors have ranked all the Vicente Fernández songs currently on the show’s set list. From “El Rey” to “A Mi Manera,” here are the Vicente Fernández songs you will hear soon in Alejandro Fernández’s voice.
“De Un Rancho a Otro”
Brazilian pop singer/songwriter Giulia Be has signed a new recording deal with Sony Music Latin Iberia. The rising Brazilian star, whose music draws from Brazil’s tropicalismo movement with influences of disco and urban music, is currently working on new material that will be released through Sony worldwide. “I am deeply grateful for this new journey […]
For artists like Danny Ocean and María Becerra, who have left their homelands to pursue global music careers, staying connected to their roots is vital. As they navigate the music scene in Miami, both find that food—whether through a favorite restaurant or home-cooked meals—helps bridge the distance between where they are and where they come from. In their stories, DoorDash plays an unexpected role, providing a way to access the comforting flavors of home, even in a new city.
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Danny Ocean’s deep love for Venezuela is woven into his music, even as his career has taken him to Miami. Born in Caracas, Danny’s sound reflects the vibrant culture he grew up with, blending reggaeton, tropical rhythms, and pop. Although Miami offers him exciting new opportunities, his connection to Venezuela remains strong. His music carries the essence of his homeland, serving as a reminder of the warmth and energy of his roots, even as he continues to evolve as an international artist.
In Miami, Danny finds comfort through the familiar tastes that bring him back to Venezuela. Thanks to the variety of options on DoorDash, he often orders from arepa.bar, indulging in arepas and other traditional dishes. For Danny, it’s not just about satisfying his hunger—it’s a way to stay connected to the culture and flavors he grew up with, offering him a sense of home in the midst of a bustling city.
Similarly, María Becerra, one of Argentina’s rising stars, carries her love for her homeland wherever she goes. Hailing from Buenos Aires, her music blends urban pop with Latin rhythms, reflecting the culture and energy of Argentina. Even though she’s made Miami her new home to advance her music career, Argentina remains close to her heart. The colors, flavors, and spirit of her country influence her work, reminding her of the vibrant streets and rich traditions of Buenos Aires.
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In Miami, María often seeks comfort in recreating the dishes she grew up with, keeping a piece of Argentina with her through food. Thanks to DoorDash’s wide variety of vendor options, she orders groceries to cook her favorite meals, like vegetarian guiso, a hearty stew she loves to prepare. Cooking these meals allows her to bring the flavors of home into her kitchen, turning the experience into a way to stay connected to Argentina. Each dish serves as a reminder of her roots, offering her a sense of nostalgia and comfort while navigating the fast-paced world of the music industry.
For both Danny Ocean and María Becerra, DoorDash provides more than just convenience—it offers a way to stay connected to the flavors of home. Whether it’s a traditional arepa from or ingredients for a comforting guiso, these meals are a reminder of the places and cultures that continue to shape their lives and music, even from afar. Through food, they find small moments of nostalgia and comfort, all made a little easier to access in their new lives abroad.
Playboy Australia issue has featured Fuerza Regida‘s Jesús Ortiz Paz (JOP) on its November 2024 cover, alongside influencer Laci Kay Somers.
Captured by photographer Diego Farelo, the cover sees JOP in a calculated, businesslike attire, with his hair in cornrows and a cigar in his hand, alongside Somers dressed in black lingerie and sporting platinum blonde hair. The photoshoot depicts the pair in varied settings, such as a compromising pose with the model atop a pool table and another set in a poker scene.
The edition, titled “Unstoppable Force,” displays the SoCal frontman and businessman in a context somewhat unusual for a musician known primarily for his contributions to Mexican regional music: The cover and accompanying feature aim to showcase his broad appeal and versatility beyond traditional music circles.
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The shared Instagram posts by the cover stars and Playboy Australia have captions that detail their respective personas and contributions. The caption about JOP reads: “As the force behind Fuerza Regida, he’s redefining Mexican regional music, blending traditional sounds with hip-hop. A powerful voice and a bold style make him a true modern icon.” Meanwhile, the description for Somers notes, “Model, singer, and influencer, Laci commands attention with her beauty and confidence, bridging fashion and entertainment with her unique style and presence.”
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In related news, Sony Music Publishing Latin recently signed JOP and Street Mob Records, his indie label that puts out records in the música mexicana genre, which boasts a roster of more than 25 songwriters, producers and artists, including Chinco Pacas, Calle 24, Clave Especial and Miguel Armenta.
Fuerza Regida recently achieved significant accolades at the 2024 Billboard Latin Music Awards, winning Hot Latin Songs artist of the year, duo or group; Top Latin Albums artist of the year, duo or group; regional Mexican artist of the year, duo or group; and regional Mexican album of the year. JOP was also recognized on Billboard’s 2024 Latin Power Player list.
See the Playboy Australia cover below: